AMBASSADOR SEAN BARDOO VISITS ITYouth- BOSTON-MASSACHUSETTS- USA

Ambassador Sean Bardoo paid a visit to the ITYouth Organization in Boston, Massachusetts, a nonprofit that works with at-risk youth and individuals impacted by the criminal justice system. His visit brought a strong message of hope, transformation, and second chances to the young people ITY serves.

ITYouth (ityouth.org) was founded by Danny Santana, a man who knows the streets and the system first-hand.  After spending over two decades involved in gang life and serving time in prison, Danny chose a different path—one of healing and giving back. Today, he leads ITY as a certified recovery coach, trauma specialist, and youth mentor, using his story to change lives.

“I spent 24 years as a gang member in and out of prison,” Danny often shares. “Now I’ve made a commitment to give back to my community.”

Ambassador Bardoo was welcomed by Danny and the ITY team and given a tour of the space where much of the organization’s work happens. From mentoring sessions and educational workshops to job training and personal development programs, each corner of ITY tells a story of growth and possibility.

As he moved through the building, Ambassador Bardoo took the time to learn, listen, and connect with the staff, the mentors, and most importantly, the youth.

At the heart of the visit was a powerful moment where Ambassador Bardoo spoke directly to the group of young people at ITY. His message was clear and heartfelt:

“Where you’ve been does not define where you’re going,” he said. “You’re not just here to survive, you’re here to rise, to lead, and to transform your communities.” Ambassador Sean Bardoo stated...

Ambassador Bardoo is an internationally recognized peace ambassador and humanitarian. As WCH Royal Ambassador to HRH Queen Maria Amor and recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at Oxford University, he’s devoted to human rights, youth empowerment, and the fight against human trafficking. 

Capturing the Moments

Left Founder-Danny Santana; Center Ambassador Sean Bardoo;

Right Rene Sirois Assistant Director  

A SPECIAL MEET & GREET -PHOTO 

SIGNING STUDENTS AT ITYOUTH

Message from ITY Student Lilyanna Furtado 

For the youth at ITY, seeing a global humanitarian like Ambassador Bardoo walk through their space and speak to them as equals is a powerful experience. It reinforces the work ITY does daily and sends the message that their journey forward is seen and supported.

In a city like Boston, where many young people face real challenges, moments like this matter. Ambassador Bardoo’s visit to ITYouth wasn’t just a handshake and a photo; it was a moment of connection that many will carry with them for a long time.

To learn more about the work happening at ITYouth or how you can get involved, visit ityouth.org. 

Ambassador Seanb Instagram